I need to install Ubuntu instead of Windows 7. Can you tell me the steps to do it? I don't want to install Ubuntu alongside Windows. Any precautions needed before installing Ubuntu? How do I install Ubuntu 11.10 without losing the current data in my laptop?

If you want to retain any data which is stored in C: drive, make a backup either on some other partition or on some external media.

If you install Ubuntu in the C: Drive (where the windows is installed) everything in the C: will be deleted. (C: contains all the contents of your Desktop, My Documents, Recycle Bin, and in most cases all your installed programs and files related to them).

On the other hand, if you choose any other partition, the contents of that partition would be deleted.

Since you want to remove Windows and install only Ubuntu, you'll have to choose C: while installing Ubuntu. There will be a window like below while installation and there'll be plenty of other options in your case and I guess you'll be able to choose to remove Windows and install Ubuntu.

If not, you'll have to manually select the partition containing Windows and install Ubuntu on it.

If i choose whole disk to install , it will cause loss of data right ?? Or can i can choose the C drive in which current OS ( windows 7 ) installed , provided it does not contain any relevant data ?
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Mathew CyriacSep 15 '12 at 16:59